Food Minister Afroza Khanam Vows Strict Action Against Irregularities in Grain Storage and Distribution
Photo Collected
Food Minister Afroza Khanam announced on Saturday that the government will take strict disciplinary action against any officials found negligent or involved in irregularities regarding the management of food grain supplies and reserves. The minister emphasized that authorities will conduct nationwide inspections of food warehouses and supply chains to ensure adequate stock levels and the distribution of safe food to the public.
Addressing reporters at a reception held at the Dhankora Girish Institution grounds in the Saturia Upazila of Manikganj, Khanam stated that maintaining sufficient food reserves and ensuring food safety remain the primary challenges for the Ministry of Food. She stressed that reserves must be robust enough to handle disasters or any emergency situations, adding that the provision of safe food is essential for public health. She called upon local officials and stakeholders to carry out their duties with greater accountability.
The minister referenced a recent case in Manikganj’s Ghior Upazila, where two officials were suspended following the discovery of discrepancies in rice and wheat inventory records. She reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward mismanagement in the food supply sector.
Regarding concerns over potential food production disruptions caused by a fertilizer shortage, Khanam dismissed the claims, asserting that there is no actual scarcity of fertilizer in the country. She acknowledged minor logistical issues in the distribution and application of the product but assured farmers that the government is actively working to ensure the availability of all necessary agricultural inputs. She expressed confidence that farmers will face no challenges regarding fertilizer supply during the upcoming Boro season.
Prior to the reception, the minister visited a free medical camp organized in memory of her late father, former minister Harunar Rashid Khan. The event was attended by local officials and community leaders, including Civil Surgeon Ivy Ferdousi, Additional Superintendent of Police Mohammad Salauddin, Saturia Upazila BNP President Abdul Quddus Khan, and members of the local chapter of the Doctors Association of Bangladesh.
0%
0%
0%
0%
